Seven Money-Saving Hacks That Actually Cost You More

Ever tried to pinch pennies and ended up burning through more cash instead? According to frugal Reddit users, some so-called “money-saving hacks” can backfire big time, and might even cost you more than just dollars. Here are a few of the top offenders:

1. Chasing Cheap Gas

Sure, a gas station across town might have prices a few cents lower, but unless the savings are significant, you could end up spending more on the drive than you save at the pump. Factor in wear and tear on your car and the value of your time, and it often doesn’t add up.

2. DIY Projects Gone Wrong

Taking the do-it-yourself route can seem thrifty, until you’re knee-deep in a bathroom renovation with a leaking pipe and no clue what you’re doing. Redditors agree: unless you really know your stuff, complex repairs can lead to bigger, costlier problems down the line.

3. Homemade ≠ Cheaper

It’s tempting to assume making something yourself is always more economical. But with the low cost of mass production, many household items or foods are often cheaper (and more reliable) to buy than to build or cook from scratch, especially when you factor in the cost of tools, ingredients, or failed attempts.

4. Buying Just Because It’s on Sale

Sales can be seductive, but frugality means buying what you need, not just what’s discounted. Stocking up on items you were going to buy anyway? Smart. Grabbing two waffle makers “just in case”? Not so much.

5. Meal Kit Services

These services sound like a great way to cut down on takeout spending, but they’re not always a solid investment. Many users admit they sign up with good intentions but still end up ordering food, and letting the meal kits go to waste.

6. Always Choosing the Cheapest Option

It’s a classic mistake: buying the cheapest shoes, appliances, or clothes only to have them fall apart quickly. Quality often means longevity, and longevity often means actual savings.

7. Growing Your Own Food

Gardening might sound like a budget-friendly way to eat, but between soil, seeds, tools, and time, it can turn into an expensive hobby. Unless you’re going full homesteader, you might spend more on tomatoes than you’d ever pay at the store.

In the world of budgeting, shortcuts can seem smart—but it turns out, they might be more hassle than they’re worth.